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JOURNAL 



Rev. ammi r. robbins, 



A CHAPLAIN IN THE AMERICAN ARMY, 



NORTHERN CAMPAIGN OF 1776, 




NEW HAVEN: 

PRINTED BY B. L. HAMLEN, 
Printer to Yale College, 



1850. 



\j^. V^'Vy 1 



t:-.^ 



JOURNAL. 



A BRIEF journal of some of the more remarkable events 
in my tour to Canada. 

Monday, March 18, 1776. — Took an affectionate leave of 
home, came to Canaan, met the Colonel and proceeded with 
a considerable retinue to Sheffield. Rev. Mr. Farraiid* 
accompanied us ; he and I dined at brother Keep's.f Had 
a most agreeable interview, prayed together and parted in 
the most tender and friendly manner. Very bad riding, but 
proceeded to Coles' in Nobletown ; lodged comfortably. 

Tuesday, 19. — Rose early, and in company rode five 
miles to breakfast, cheerful and comfortable ; proceeded to 
Kinderhook, thence to Greenbush, put out our horses, crossed 
the river at dark and came into Albany; lodged pretty well. 

Wednesday, 20. — Found Colonel Buel and Major Sedg- 
wick, agreed to put up with them. Drew our provisions and 
lodged on the floor on my mattrass. May I be thankful for 
such comfortable entertainment. Went twice this day to 
visit and pray with a poor soldier of the Pennsylvania regi- 
ment under sentence of death ; he appeared much affected 
but dreadfully ignorant. 

Thursday, 21. — All the troops drawn up on the parade and 
the prisoner brought out blindfolded to his execution, when 
the General (Schuyler) stepped forth and in a moving and 
striking speech, pardoned the criminal. P. M., crossed the 
river, sent off my horse, wrote two letters, visited the graves 

* Of Canaan. 

\ Rev. John Keep, of Sheffield, whose wife was a sister of the writer. 



of those who rlied in the French ivar in this place ; found 
my dear uncle Foot's, dropped a tear over it ; returned to 
my soldier home ; slept comfortably. 

Friday, 22. — We attend prayer with the regiment, morn- 
ing and evening. Rode five miles to see a sick soldier, 
fear he cannot live, (Wright of Watson's company.) I have 
much respect shown me as chaplain by all the officers with 
whom I live, and can be intimate with Colonel Buel on seri- 
ous subjects. We live in family way. 

Saturday, 23. — Cannon arrived from New York to go for- 
ward. Walked and visited the sick ; at evening, Mr. Wat- 
son, a trustee of the Presbyterian church, waited on me with 
a request to preach to-morrow ; consented, if soldiers ad- 
mitted, O for grace to bear testimony for God in this wick- 
ed city. 

Lord's Day, 24. — Prayed in the family, then on parade 
with the regiment; at 10.^ went to church, preached from 
Hosea, "I will go and return to my place till they acknowl- 
edge their offence and seek my face." P. M., Micah, v, 5, 
"And this man shall be the peace." Used great plainness ; 
a large assembly and very attentive ; baptized two children. 
Kindly entertained after meeting at Mr. Smith's, one of the 
church. Elder Ager asks me to preach next sabbath. 

Monday, 25. — After prayers, visited four sick soldiers of 
Capt. Downs's and Capt. Parmelee's company ; am thankful 
for comfortable health, eat and sleep well. We drink no 
spirits at all, and I find it best unless I have more fatigue. 
Nothing remarkable to-day. 

Tuesday, 26. — Went up to Stillwater, visited David Wright 
who died before night. Saw our people at Stillwater who 
seemed exceedingly rejoiced at my coming; prayed and sung 
on the parade at night, appointed a sermon next morning at 1 
o'clock ; will God bless his truth ; lodged at Esq. Palmer's. 

Wednesday, 27. — Visited the sick and prayed with them, 
preached at 10 o'clock in Mr. Campbell's meeting house. 



dined with Esq. Palmer ; P. M., returned with Doct. Swift to 
Albany; cordially received, &c. 

Thursday^ 28. — After prayers, attended the execution of a 
sentence of court martial upon three poor Pennsylvania 
soldiers, who received thirty-nine lashes each. The whole 
army drawn up. — P. M., the army marched round the city, a 
formidable appearance. Wrote to my father, brother Starr* 
and my wife ; General Thomas is arrived in town. 

Friday^ 29. — Dined at Elder Edgars's, gentlemanly man 
and pleasant family ; P. M., viewed the movements of the 
Jersey and Pennsylvania troops in a large field. Wrote by 
request to Lieut. Wright of Winchester. Hiss son is sick. 

Saturday, 30. — Visited two sick soldiers, fear they will not 
live, visited sundry under officers and soldiers who showed 
me much respect and seemed to take reproofs well, &c. — 
nothing remarkable. 

Lord^s Day, 31. — Attended again in the Presbyterian 
church, A. M., preached on Christian armor. P. M., Ex. xxxiii, 
15. " If thy presence go not with me, carry us not up hence." 
Great assembly, sundry Jersey and Pennsylvania officers and 
others ; Gen. Schuyler's family and aid-de-camp all day, was 
enabled to speak with great freedom, blessed be God. Took 
refreshment at Mr. Watson's, visited the sick at the barracks, 
was amazingly shocked and pained to see the wickedness of 
the people of the city and the land on the Sabbath, — 'tis a 
high play day ; attended evening prayers and near one 
thousand people flocked round from their diversions, was 
enabled to be large and solemn in prayer for this poor city 
and the ignorant spectators. — Oh, that some poor wretch 
might be taken hold of ; returned to my quarters excessively 
weary and spent ; Col. B. is a kind father, brother and dear 
companion, a great support and comfort to me, may I be 
thankful. 

* Rev. Peter Starr, of Warren, whose wife was a sister of the writer. 



Monday, April 1. — Slept well and feel greatly strength- 
ened ; was applied to, to baptize a child, whose father is of 
the Church of England, but a very kind, catholic man ; wrote 
home and to brother Starr ; nothing remarkable. 

Tuesday, 2. — Dined at Elder Edgar's. P. M., attended a 
funeral of one of Capt. Troop's company, the third that has 
died in the regiment ; spent the evening with Major Thomas ; 
received a letter from brother Chandler,* reviving. 

Wednesday, 3. — We received orders to proceed, I came in 
a bateau to Half Moon, in company with Col. Buel ; wrote to 
brother Starr. 

Thursday., 4. — I marched on foot with the Colonel and 
under officers to Stillwater, 12 miles, not greatly fatigued; 
entertained most kindly at Esq. Palmer's, attended prayers at 
sunset with two companies, lodged with Col. Buel. 

Friday, 5. — Proceeded in a bateau up the river from Still- 
water, arrived at night at Saratoga, spent the evening agree- 
ably with a number of officers at Mr. McNeil's, lodged well, 
blessed be God. 

Saturday, 6. — All our people at and near the landing ; ex- 
ercised and walked around with the officers in A. M. ; sun- 
dry poorly among the soldiers, who must be left behind. P. 
M., at 2 o'clock. Col. Buel and I set out and came to Fort 
Edward, lodged at Esq. Smith's, Fort Edward is mouldering 
down, it compasses more than an acre of ground. 

Lord's Day, 7. — Rose early, walked four miles to break- 
fast. It rains little, though called to march, yet a pleasant 
Sabbath ; profitable discourse and meditation, sweet to think 
of dear friends in New England all now in the worship 
of God, and praying for us. We walked moderately, sol- 
diers scattering along, but we by ourselves as two pilgrims ; 
iio other refreshment for eleven miles than brook water ; 
when within four miles of lake George, stopped to view the 
place of the fight in the year 1755, and the manner of Col. 

* Rev. Cli.iDdler Robbing, D.D., Plymouth, Mass. 



Whiting's retreat, saw where Col, WiUiams was killed, old 
Hendrick, &c. At four P. M. arrived at Lake George, went 
into the fort, dined comfortably ; at eve, sundry officers and 
soldiers came up, gave a word of exhortation, sung and prayed 
near the water, the poor carpenters very attentive and solemn. 
Fort William Henry is so gone, that scarcely any traces are 
left. Fort George is a small stone fort, with a convenient 
brick barrack in the midst, containing six rooms for soldiers. 
The lake is much less than I expected, environed with high 
craggy mountains ; a convenient wharf at the end, and a 
large number of fine bateaux about it ; barracks built for the 
accommodation of several regiments of soldiers. The ice is 
very rotten, and we hope will be gone in eight or ten days; 
Col. Buel has the command here till we proceed down the 
lake to Ticonderoga. 

Monday, 8. — Breakfasted with Col. Buel and two gentle- 
men of Montreal, one of whom, is just arrived from England, 
entertaining conversation, &c. ; walked about the lake, viewed 
the works ; there are about a hundred new and large bateaux, 
and many more in building ; dined at Jones' with the same 
gentlemen, walked over to see the ruins of Fort William 
Henry, the French lines, &c. It rains this P. M., prayed 
and sung at night in the large new barrack, great numbers 
attended; this day two companies of Pennsylvania troops 
came in, and sundry of ours, numbers are left sick on the 
road, two or three here are very sick, and many poorly ; how 
easy 'tis for God to bless or blast our designs. 

Tuesday, 9. — The ice on the lake wastes fast — our troops 
come in thick, and two companies of the Pennsylvania 
Greens arrived. Pleasant day. 

Wednesday, lO.^Sailed on the lake a little for diversion, 
visited Capt. Watson's company who live in tents by the 
east mountain. This day Col. Buel and I moved into the 
fort, at night bags and baggage came ; the Jersey regiment 
cirrived. 



8 

Thursday, 11. — It rained hard all night, high winds this 
morning, the lake opens fast ; news to-day of the taking of a 
large prize by the American fleet, which was going to the 
southward — six hnndred barrels of powder and two hundred 
cannon. News of Gen. Spencer with five regiments com- 
ing after us — rejoicing — at night, Gen. Schuyler arrived. 

Friday, 12. — It snows hard, can scarcely go out, but 
visited Gen. Schuyler, P. M. He is a very complaisant 
man,&,c. 

Saturday, 13. — Visited several sick in the Hospital, no- 
thing very remarkable ; received two letters from home, the 
first gave me pain, but the second relieved me, giving an ac- 
count that my daughter is likely to live. Oh, that I might 
be truly thankful and weaned from worldly enjoyments — 
many officers of the other regiments attended prayers. 

Lord's Day, 14. — Agreed to preach in the lower barrack, 
near the lake, because uncomfortable abroad. A. M., preached 
from Isa. xxvii. 4, 5, " Fury is not in me : who would set 
the briers and thorns against me in battle? I would go 
through them, I would burn them together. Or let him take 
hold of my strength, that he may make peace with me, and 
he shall make peace with me." P. M., IVfalachi, iii. 2, " But 
who may abide the day of his coming ? and who shall stand 
when he appeareth ? for he is like a refiner's fire, and like 
fullers' soap." P. M., Gen. Thomas and most all the officers 
of the army present — very attentive — prayed that night on 
parade, and was much wearied. This day Lieut. Gaylord 
died, ten miles from here on his way home, the fourth in our 
regiment — may the living lay it to heart. 

Monday, 15. — Very pleasant day, general court martial. 
Capt. Watson to be tried, accused of disorder, 6lc., by 
Esq. Smith of Fort Edward, is acquitted with honor; con- 
versed with Gen. Thomas about the state of our country, 
found him easy and communicative. Gen. Schuyler gave 
me the offer to go in what boat I pleased to Canada, &c. ; 



this day Col. Burrall and Doct. Sutton arrived, received a 
kind letter from Rev. Mr. Farrand ; general orders to-day that 
our regiment be ready to march in the front. 

Tuesday^ 16. — Wet, lowery weather, the boats all assigned 
for our regiment. Capt. Watson was dismissed yesterday, 
but tried again to>day ; he is greatly injured by Esq. Smith : 
wrote four letters, to my wife, Joseph Gaylord, Rev. Mr. 
Farrand and Rev. Mr. Bordwell ;* large quantities of powder 
came. 

Wednesday^ 17.-— Paraded on the beach at daybreak, but 
dismissed. The ice not broken away sufficiently to proceed. 
P. M., Gen. Thomas with his crew set off, broke their way 
through the ice and got out of sight. An express arrived 
from Canada. 

Thursday, 18. — The Jersey Blues, Col. Shreve, in the 
front, set off in the morning, the first battalion of Pennsyl- 
vania followed, we expect to go to-morrow. The camp now 
is in general health, nothing remarkable. 

Friday, 19.- — My own health is good, praise to God — •! am 
not sensible of the blessing as I ought to be. We had orders 
to march, arose very early, packed my things with greatest 
expedition. At 10 o'clock embarked in the rear of our regi- 
ment, came to twelve mile island, and then with amazing fa- 
tigue, almost discouraged, we broke through the ice by inches 
—the weather cold and inclement, but towards night got 
through the ice to the narrows, and with a fine gale came to 
Sabbath'day-point at dark, twenty-four miles from Fort 
George, where we encamped ; I lodged in a tent on the 
ground, but had a bed-— feared as the ground was so wet and 
cold, it would be attended with bad consequences, but rested 
comfortably. 

Saturday, 20.— Rose early by daybreak, ran round the 
encampment to visit the sick soldiers, found them full of ex- 
pectation ; we breakfasted and being prepared to embark, 

-"- Of Kent, 

2 



10 

met at the water, sung and prayed, then set oti' for the land- 
ing at the month of Lake George. Landed at 1 1 o'clock 
P. M., and the army was in motion unloading and lading the 
carriages for Ticonderoga, which is three miles off. I walked 
with the Major over to Ty., fonnd a room, we moved in, sup- 
ped and slept well. Here are great and surprising works of 
the French, still to be seen. This is a most advantageous 
point of land on which the Fort stands, which seems to be 
the center to command South Bay. Lake Champhiin and 
Lake George. Here are convenient barracks, &c., in the 
Fort ; a few New York forces stationed here, but oh, 'tis im- 
possible to describe the profaneness and wickedness of some 
of these men. It would be a dreadful hell to live with such 
creatures forever. 

Lord^s Day, 21. — It don't feel like Sal)bath day, but I 
can't forget it, none seem to know or think any thing 
abont it. Col. Btiel and the Major went back to the landing 
very early — I breakfasted and then went to see several sick 
in the hospital — Oh, 'tis terrible to be sick in the army, such 
miserable accommodations, it is enough to kill a man's spirit 
when first taken to go into the hospital. I walked round and 
had some serious conversation with one Capt. Baldwin of New 
Canaan. Gen. Scluiyler is here to-day, Col. Bnel back and 
forth, and all very busy in getting the articles, stores, &c., 
over to this place. I moved to have a lecture at least to-day, 
but 'tis discouraging, no time or leisure for any thing. After 
dimier. at 2 o'clock I took a book and walked out in the 
woods two hours alone, enjoyed a sweet season, and enlarged 
— "ommittere tneipsum solo Deo et in svpplicationibus pro 
arnicis absentibus, ^'c. (S,'c. 

Walked afterwards to a house, where I found a woman 
reading to her husband. It did me good to see any body 
serious and remembering in any degree the Sabbath — talked 
and prayed with them, returned towards night, viewed the 
place of Abercrombie's defeat in 1758. Saw many holes 



11 

where the dead were flung in, and numbers of human 
bones, thigh, arms, &c., above ground. Oh, the horrors of 
war. It seems to me, I never so much longed for the day 
to approach when men shall learn war no more, and the 
lion and lamb lie down together. I have reproved sundry 
of our people to-day for needless disregard of the Sabbath, 
and I hope with some success. 

Mr. Dean with several of the Cocnowagas set off from 
hence to Canada. This eve received a letter from my wife 
which comforted me. 

Monday^ 22. — Rainy, misty weather. Mr. Wheelock and 
Mr. Hutchinson from Dartmouth College arrived last night 
by the way of South Bay, and are going to Canada ; the for- 
mer only to see the country and return soon ; the latter to be a 
chaplain; he appears to be a serious, pretty youth. P. M., 
spent some time in conversation with Col. Shreve, a very 
valuable man. He with the other officers talked together and 
he begged me not to engage with another regiment, but 
since I was like to have the care of two, to supply iliern. 
Visited the hospitals, &c. Col. Buel received orders to com- 
mand at St. John's, and is appointed Aid to the General, I 
am troubled with a sore eye, painful, but slept comfortably 
and enjoy good health. Gratias Deo. 

Tuesday, 23. — Rose early, visited the hospitals, prayed 
with the sick, &c. ; may I cheerfully do my duty, and have 
grace to be faithful. The common military stores brought 
over briskly. P. M., attended the funeral of one of Capt. 
Swift's men; his company present; gave a serious exhorta- 
tion at the grave, and prayed. Fine pleasant weather, hope 
to go on soon. 

Wednesday, 24. — Visited the sick, &c. ; went over to the 
Falls — general orders to-day for all to embark to-morrow 
morning. Doct. B^'ranklin and the other Commissioners* went 

* Mr. Chase and Mr. C!aii<)ll. 



12 

off to-day ; wrote home and also to my father, to Rev. Mr. 
Mills* and brother Keep. Sent cash, 7| dollars, to my wife 
by one John Collins of Salisbury, 

Thursday, 25. — Rose very early, all in the utmost hurry, 
preparing to embark. Pleasant day, fair breeze, hoisted sail 
at 10 o'clock for St. Johns. I came with Col. Buel and the 
Maj. ; arrived at Crown Point at 3 o'clock, walked round 
and viewed the fort, barracks, &c. ; amazing works ! pro- 
ceeded towards night in the front of all our regiments, 
came to Basin Harbor, spread our tents, lodged very com- 
fortably. 

Friday, 26. — Rose at daybreak, and with the Jersey reg- 
iment proceeded with a sweet, fair gale, came to Split Rock, 
passed, and with a most fine wind to the Four Brothers. At 
noon, wind shifted and it rained ; wind right ahead and bois- 
terous sea, was a little exercised in the midst of Cumberland 
Bay. No putting about, and four or five miles to land ahead. 
However pushed on, arrived at 4 o'clock at Cumberland 
Head, after a most fatiguing P. M. Great cause for thank- 
fulness. It is fifty-five miles from Crown Point to Cumber- 
land Head ; the Lake very wide, looks like the Long Island 
Sound, with islands about in it. 

Saturday, 27. — Slept well in tent last night; Col. Shreve 
and seven more boats encamped near us ; pleasant morning, 
drank tea and at five o'clock pushed off; very still and clear. 
This is a most level, beautiful country, no mountains, excel- 
lent land. Passed along the grand Island, which is thirty 
miles in length. The main land, an extended level, all in a 
state of nature, but most charming to behold. At 12 arrived 
at Point-au-Fere, the white house; landed half an hour, 
catched a morsel and put off, soon there arose a fine gale 
which brought us into the narrow Lake, where 'tis in gen- 
eral not half a mile wide. Came past Isle Aux-Noix, where 
were to be seen the ruins of the old French fortifications 

* Of Torrinarford, 



13 

which mounted a great number of cannon ; wind died away, 
but with the rain rose again from the south, by means of 
which we went with great rapidity. Tiie lake is now a nar- 
row, straight river; arrived at St. Johns at 6 P. M. Thus 
have we come the length of Champlain, 135 miles in three 
days. St. Johns has a garrison of a hundred men, under Capt. 
Walker. Viewed the effects of last Fall's siege, &c. Treat- 
ed with great civility by Capt. Walker; supped and lodged 
well in our markee ; the Lake here becomes a river with a 
swift current down to Chamblee ; the country round very 
level and good, but the inhabitants in general but a little 
above a state of heathenism. Montreal lies twenty-five 
miles to the west ; Capt. Stevens is gone to join Col. Beadle 
at the Cedars, forty miles west of Motitreal, and Col. Buel 
with three companies is to be here and at Chamblee, the rest 
to proceed, so that we are like to be very much broken and 
scattered — and the prospects at Quebec look very dark. Oh 
that I might he enabled to trust in God, and not be afraid — 
tlio' the earth be removed and nations die, Jehovah lives and 
reigns, and blessed be my Rock. 

Lord's Day^ 28. — Pleasant morning, walked out for retire- 
ment. Breakfasted ; had pleasing views of the glorious day 
of universal peace and spread of the gospel through this 
vast extended country, which has been for ages the dwell- 
ing of Satan, and reign of Antichrist. Wrote to my wife j 
at 10 o'clock we went with our pilot down the rapids, and 
'tis truly astonishing that a bateau can live in such places. 
Arrived safe at Chamblee at one o'clock ; found Capt. Bene- 
dict, who received and treated me with great kindiiess — he 
has been under an arrest by Col. Hazen from the 11th inst. 
I hope to know the issue of his trial ; live with him in a 
convenient room. This evening Col. Burrall arrived. At 
sunset by request went and gave a word. of exhortation and 
prayed with the Jersey regiment on the parade — officers 
and soldiers very solemn. Many boats arrived to-day. 



14 

Monday, '2,^. — Walked about; got acquainted with some 
of the peo|)le v/ho treat me with great civility ; Jersey reg- 
iment set otr I'ur Quebec with a fine wind. This eve mar- 
ried a couple who hve here, but not French, and of the Pro- 
testant rehgion. Took sev^eral officers with me — a very de- 
cent wedding. 

Tuesday^ 30. — Chamblee is a beautiful small town, situ- 
ated round a large bay. They have a church, I walked in, 
viewed it with several officers, and truly my soul was griev- 
ed to see their superstition. There are but three crucifixes 
in this church, and few images; saw the sacred font, holy 
altar, candles, &c. A lad while we viewed, came towards 
the altar, kneeled some time with the greatest devotion. Oh 
when shall Satan be bound and Antichrist meet a final over- 
throw ? — We are detained for the cannon to be brought 
from St. Thrace. The gundalow has come dov/n the rapids 
with five large ones, the rest come by land. Second battal- 
ion of the Pennsylvanians arrived, to go on to-morrow ; near 
night came on a terrible storm of wind and rain ; the bateaux 
were much exposed, and the powder, but the men exerted 
themselves to their utmost, and it was secured. It rained 
hard, and towards morning snowed, weather very cold. 

Wednesday, May 1. — Remarkably cold for this season of 
the year. Col. Buel gone to Gen. Arnold at Montreal ; un- 
happy disputes between him and Col. Hazen. Oh how easy 
it is, if God suffer it, to have the country destroyed by inter- 
nal broils and divisions. Went abroad scarce any, so cold 
and turbulent is the weather. The cannon all come ; the 
commissioners are at Montreal, who lay plans of operations, 
&c. ; things look dark — we seem in. an enemy's country, and 
if defeated at Quebec we are surrounded with foes on every 
side, but it is a great consolation that the Lord Jehovah reigns 
and orders all the events of war and will take care of his 
own cause. 



15 

Thursday, 2. — Weather more pleasant. Col. Hazeii disa- 
grees with Col. Biirrell, warm disjjule. He orders Col. Bur- 
rell to embark directly and leave the powder and cannon till 
further orders. He refuses — sends off an express to Arnold at 
Montreal. Lieut. Col. Allen embarked this morning with six 
companies of his battalion — fair wind — we are waiting for in- 
structions to proceed ; enjoy good health, thanks to God, and 
in general, good sj)irits. Col. Buel arrived from Montreal, and 
at eve Gen. Arnold, who orders the gundalow to be mounted 
with cannon, &c.» The train, Capt. Bigelow, arrived this 
evening ; received a letter from home by J. Lawrence ; it is 
comforting but very tender. I never can forget my dear 
family, or lose the least affection for them, wherever 1 am. 

Friday, 3. — Rose early ; Col. Buel received positive in- 
strnctions from Gen. Arnold, with warm words and threats, 
to proceed. He obeyed, but dispatched an express to Gen. 
Schuyler. Very busy in preparation to sail. All embarked 
at 12 o'clock and with a fine gale : had the most pleasant 
sail I ever was in, without the least need of rowing. Came 
in Capt. Watson's boat with the Maj. We passed St. George's 
twenty miles from Chamblee at 2i o'clock, so that we ran 
at a great rate. The country is the most pleasant I ever saw, 
small houses, but close to the river each side — perfectly level 
from the banks which are about six and eight feet from the 
water. 'Tis grievous and atlecting to see the superstition — 
every mile and sometimes oftener I find a cross fixed, and on 
some the spear, sponge, hammer, nails, &c. Five miles from 
St. George's we passed St. Dennis, where is also a church 
and nunnery — saw the nuns at the door as we passed, &c. 
Smart wind — we go at the rate of six or seven miles an hour ; 
arrived at sunset. Stopped at Col. Duggan's, he not at home ; 
supped very lightly — had a very ill turn, vomiting ; sat up 
late but slept comTortably three or four hours. Col. Duggan 
is engaged in the service ; his wife can't speak a word of 
English, but very friendly and polite — a little son interprets. 
The Colonel has gone to Montreal. 



16 

Saturday^ 4. — At sunrise embarked. It rained till 10 ; we 
passed the month of the Sorrel, where is another beautiful 
town, then entered the Grand Lake. Side wind, very rongh. 
I never had so clear an idea of the hazards and fatigues of 
sailors and soldiers as this day. Poorly and weak, and the 
sea made me very sick, vomited till I could vomit no more. 
Sundry sick on board, but with great difficulty put away to 
the leeward into the Bay of St. Anthony. Came to the 
Senior De Jacy, who entertained us exceeding kindly. Three 
boats. Supped on tea, refreshed, having* eaten nothing for 
twenty-four hours. By leave of the man of the house, I 
gave a word of exhortation, we sung and prayed ; went to 
rest, concerned for several boats behind. 

Lord's Day^ 5. — As cold last night as it is with us in New 
England in March. Wind high all night, at a loss about 
proceeding, because wind ahead ; breakfasted at seven o'clock ; 
acknowledged the kindness of the people which is indeed 
remarkable. Took a walk with the officers ; at nine o'clock 
wind died away, set out, met with four boats who lay in the 
drowned land all night ; great fatigue, but all well ; only Capt. 
Parmelee lost his masts. This part of the river is called 
Wide Lake ; you can't see across. Pleasant day, but cold. 
Rowed along, little wind, northwest. We passed the mouth 
of the Great Lake which is five miles wide, where a river 
comes in from the east. Landed on the south shore and 
waited for other boats to come up.' Some passed the night 
in the boats in the drowned land, with great fatigue, but no 
lives lost. Discoursed to the people in our boat, on the mil- 
lenium. Took refreshment and sailed down to Trois Riv- 
ieres, where all put up in the Barracks. 'Tis a beautifnl 
town, about as large as Plymouth, situated on the river. 
Some troops stationed here. Discouraging news from (Que- 
bec, about small pox. Our soldiers come back in great num- 
bers, on our near approach to head quarters. 



17 

Monday, 6. — Rose early and embarked, wind ahead, 
rowed heavily under the banks of the north shore, the river 
in general about four miles wide. Met three or four vessels 
— no news. Rowed about four miles, put in a creek ; went 
up and breakfasted ; set off at about 10 o'clock ; the pilot in 
Col. Buel's boat ahead. The north shore is good land, cul- 
tivated and inhabited all along, but the opposite locks like 
a desolate wilderness ; vast cakes and bodies of ice ; 'tis 
very cold, equal to winter, this morning ; at noon very 
calm ; rowed down, banks very high, passed troops every 
five or six miles but the river very wide. Exercised with 
sickness, vomiting severely, very weak. At sunset arrived 
at Dechambalt, v/here our orders were to stop. Foimd an 
intreuchment begun ; went to bed in the Parsonage house. 

Tuesday, 7. — We were alarmed at 2 o'clock this morning 
by two expresses from Q,uebec, giving account of the arri- 
val of the fleet, fifteen sail, who yesterday came along by 
Gluebec ; our poor feeble, sickly army is obliged to retreat 
with great precipitancy. Great numbers sick with the small 
pox we had to leave, and some others ; the ships pursuing up 
the river, firing at our army on the land and in the bateaux. 
This is the most terrible day I ever saw. God of armies, 
help us. Three ships came near by us, firing as they came, 
and our boats and people in a scattered condition, com- 
ing up. Distress and anxiety in every countenance. The 
small pox thick among us, from the poor fugitives that 
come up; we are in hourly expectation of the ships attack- 
ing us — our boats, provisions, &c. The whole conspired to 
give an idea of distress. At 11 Gen, Thomas came up and 
immediately a council of war was called, Gen. Wooster 
present and a great number of gentlemen. The result is, to 
retreat with the whole army back to the river Sorrel (130 
miles), as in case of a defeat here, 'twill be absolutely fatal. 
Saw Rev. Mr. Evans, Mr. Spring, &c., brother chaplains, worn 
out with fatigue, &c. Many officers lost all, to the clothes 



18 

on their backs. Gen. Wooster goes by water with the boats ; 
Gen. Thomas brings up the rear by land. All t' •• men ex- 
cept enough for rowing and the invahds, go by land. I am 
still unwell, very much weakened with the disorder that has 
attended me these four days past; am obliged to go by wa- 
ter; went with Gen. Wooster who is as kind to rne as a fa- 
ther. We set sail at sun.set — the other boats to follow — came 
several leagues ; ran on the reefs twice, but through mercy, 
no damage. Wind high and current strong, but with great 
difficulty put into the east shore ; went up the high banks to 
a house at 2 o'clock and slept two hours. The boatmen sing 
a very pretty air to " Row the boat row" which ran in my 
head when half asleep, nor could I put it entirely out of 
mind amid all our gloom and terror, with the water up to 
my knees as I lay in the boat. My difficulty was, one pas- 
sage I could not get. 

Wednesday, S. — Wind ahead, but a mercy to the army, 
as the ships can't proceed. We rowed against wind and 
strong current about ten miles and put up in a convenient 
house at 2 o'clock. Dined and tried to rest ; it rained ; boats 
coming on, and people by land. Wind so strong, concluded 
to tarry the night ; slept, but often waked by the sentinels, 
noises, &c. 

Thursday^ 9. — Rose early, breakfasted and set off at seven 
o'clock. Calm, but sailing slow against the current ; several 
boats in sight and men on shore. Called nine miles short of 
Trois Rivieres. Dined very well. Profitable conversation 
with Gen. Wooster and Maj. Lockwood. Proceeded and 
came to Trois Rivieres at dark, in a very thick fog. Went 
up to Sill's, supped and lodged ; i. e., one nap of three hours. 
Great are the fatigues of our march, enough to destroy the 
strongest constitution. My eyes very sore, but otherwise 
as well as can be expected. Praise to God. 

Friday, 10. — Serene and very calm weather, and 'tis a 
great mercy as the ships can by no means move on and the 



19 

army may. We took a dish of tea at sunrise and proceeded 
up towards the great lake, called St. Peter's Lake. Heard of 
the army being attacked by land, but nothing remarkable. 
The people here grow more insolent, but we have no fears 
from them as yet. Proceeded slow because strong currents 
out of the Grand Lake, came up to the mouth of it and put 
in the south side. Struck fire and cooked some dinner, fish, 
&c. At noon proceeded. Col. Nicholson in company in an- 
other boat. Wind ahead, obliged to put into the river east 
side of St. Anthony's Bay. Lodged — Capt. Goforth came 
up an express to New York. 

Saturday, IL — Feel poorly, and much worn out, dis- 
tressed for the army ; surely our cause is good and we shall 
prosper. We have to endure contiimal hardships, and little 
sleep, but having obtained help we are enabled to proceed on 
our way. Early, before sunrise, entered St. Peter's lake. 
Perfect calm, rowed within five miles of west end, when a 
hard gale came ahead, and we were in a terrible situation, 
but through mercy, near night, got through into a narrow 
river, which leads to Sorrel. Lodged, much fatigued — came 
up with my boy and chest, which arrived safe before me. 
Numbers arriving and many with small pox, was a little anx- 
ious about my boy who has undoubtedly taken it in the boat. 

Lord's Day, 12. — Rowed up to Sorrel, landed at 9 o'clock. 
Found two Boston regiments arrived, also sundry others, 
found Mr. Barnum, Mr. Breck, Mr. McCawlay, Mr. Spring 
and Mr. Evans,* but no public exercise to-day, as troops are 
in such confusion. Conversed with sundry gentlemen, who 
indeed feel greatly distressed ; our days are days of darkness. 
I put up with Col. Burrall, half a mile from the encampment. 
People keep coming in, and such as we expected were cer- 
tainly taken. No news from Gen. Thomas. Feel very 
gloomy to-day on every account, low in spirits by reason of 
my disorder which has brought me down, which together 

* Chaplains. 



20 

with the fatigues and fearful forebodings, has been almost 
too much. Still I believe our cause is just, and we shall 
prosper. Received letters from Rev. Mr. Farrand, brother 
Keep, and my wife to-day, and wrote to each of them by a 
Sheffield man ; attended prayers with Mr. Barnum, in Col. 
Gratton's regiment ; had conversation in the evening with 
the Chaplains, subject between Mr. McCawlay and myself 
about the accomplishment of the promises, differ a little about 
the millenium. 

Monday^ 13. — Walked out this morning into the camp, 
which now makes a very considerable appearance. Our regi- 
ment almost all back, but a {e\v scattering ones in boats. 
Gen. Arnold is come from Montreal ; they are erecting the old 
battery to command the river, but a strange discouragement 
seems to prevail in the army among the officers. There is 
jealousy and want of confidence, we are in a most critical 
situation. P. M., Mr. Barnum and Mr. Spring came to see 
me, we all attended prayers at night with Col. Gratton's and 
Col. Bond's regiments. The small pox strikes terror into our 
troops. 

Tuesday, 14. — Rose early, walked out, agreed for a boat 
to Chamblee — concluded to go in Gen. Wooster's, on account 
of my taking medicine and having ray boy with the Doctor. 
P. M., set off, head wind, strong current, came to Col. Dug- 
gan's, entertained kindly, went to bed at twelve, slept com- 
fortably a few hours. 

Wednesday^ 15. — Rose early, breakfasted and set off, high 
wind ahead, mei a uumber of boats carrying fresh troops 
down ; came slow, I walked on shore. At noon lay by till 5 
O'clock ; proceeded to St. Dennis, lodged, slept better than 
sometimes. 

Thursday, 16. — Rose early, came to St. Charles', the wind 
North ; good for us, but fear the ships will come along from 
below. Took breakfast at eleven and proceeded. Find my- 
.«elf feeble, yet hitherto God hath helped me. We arrived at 



21 

Chambyee near night, all in confusion. Here we are in a 
great country and know not who are friends or who are ene- 
mies. The Canadians full of trouble, &c., in short, our army 
in a most sad state, no provisions, nor supplies, only men; 
nor half enough of them. Found Doct. Sutton ; put up, 
lodged but disturbed by noise and confusion through the 
night. Gen. Wooster is determined to go to Montreal before 
leaving the country ; multitudes are moving down, Warner's, 
Cady's, Arnold's, &c., they will not stay, though all is lost. 

Friday^ 17. — Very feeble, walked out, advised with Gen. 
Wooster, who gave me a permit to go to New England when 
I please, talked with the Doctor about it, am at loss, may I 
be directed to what is best. On the whole conclude 'tis 
really my duty to go. Found Mr. Eli Pettibone who is in 
Col. Warner's regiment, concluded to go with them as it is 
next to impossible, if not utterly so, to get an opportunity 
this month. Talked freely with Stephen (my boy) who is 
willing to return and join the regiment, however tried to ob- 
tain leave of the General for him, but could not. Towards 
night made a sack and put up my clothes. Col. Warner con- 
sents that I go with his people, though very much crowded. 
Supped, went to bed, but noise and confusion in the house 
and abroad, prevented me from getting much sleep or rest. 

Saturday^ 18. — Was called on in the morning to go soon ; 
wrote two letters, to Col. Burrall and Mr. Spring — gave Mr. 
Spring two shirts if he stays, one if not. Left several things 
with Stephen to dispose of, took the rest and set off for St. 
Johns. Got another soldier to carry my pack — walked, but 
very feeble. Stephen came with me two or three miles, T 
inoculated him again this morning, trust he will do well, left 
him somewhat cheerful. He has desired me to give his duty, 
&c., to his parents and tell them he has no desire to return. 
I walked on moderately to St. Johns, a great part of the way 
alone. Stephen brought me a small bit of bread, which at 
3 o'clock I ate, being very faint, and I think if ever I re- 



22 

ceived a meal with a grateful heart, it was that. I arrived 
at St. Johns at sunset, and in the midst of the throng, found 
to my great surprise, Capt. Mayhew, Lieut. Warren and sev- 
eral Plymouth people. Capt. Mayhew has his whole com- 
pany here, he commands the garrison. 

Remarkable Providence. — All out of provisions here and 
at Chamblee and elsewhere, but while struck with terror and 
apprehension, five boats appeared in sight with a great num- 
ber of barrels of pork — In the mount, God appears. It is Sat- 
urday night, but all is confusion. Maj. Safford of Bennington 
is very kind to me, he gives me the offer to go with him in 
his boat in the morning ; saw Rev. Mr. Kingsley and Rev. 
Mr. Dean who were going to Albany. 

Lord^s Day., 19. — News from the Cedars, that there is an 
attack. Four hundred regulars, about two hundred Indians 
and Canadians; Col. Beadle, Patterson, &c., opposed them — 
know not the event. Slept scarce any last night, my 
diarrhea returned with great violence, ceased about 10, just 
as we were ready to march ; assembled on the beach, sung 
and prayed, and where, weak as I was, I gave a word of ex- 
hortation, and the people seemed solemn. No sooner was the 
exercise over than an express arrived fromlVIontreal, to take 
back three of our boats with provisions, which put a stop to 
our embarkation. Capt. Mayhew showed me much kindness, 
breakfasted with him, saw a number of Plymouth people. 
At 11 o'clock found time and place to lie down and drowse, 
which evidently refreshed me, but was extremely weak. 
Oh, what can I not undergo and be supported through, if 
God be with me. At 2 o'clock begged a mouthful of fresh 
meat which was cooked, and though my stomach was so 
weak as to loathe, yet it seemed to strengthen me. At 3 
o'clock a detachment of Gen. Sullivan's came in, with six 
boats and a hundred barrels of pork. At 4 o'clock we set 
off, I came with Capt. Pearson of Stockbridge, Rev. Mr. 
Ripley and Rev. Mr. Dean in company, rode as far as Isle 



23 

Aux-Noix at dark. My diarrhea continued — very weak, took 
some brandy toddy with a bit of sea bread and lay down by 
the side of a barn and slept three hours. 

Monday, 20. — My disorder continued — very weak — com- 
mitted myself to God. Was called at 3 o'clock and at 4 we set 
off. My spirits a little revived, bat oh, how weak ; bit a morsel 
of sea bread, but had not moisture enough to swallow only 
by the help of lake water. Pleasant calm morning, we 
rowed on to Point-au-Fere, the white house, got a breakfast 
of tea with a little milk which seemed to revive me, but af- 
terwards was exercised with great pain — faint and weak — 
yet hitherto God hath helped me. Arrived at the white 
house at 3 o'clock, tarried an hour and proceeded, wind 
ahead, six miles and lodged under some bushes — poor ac- 
commodations but such as soldiers often have. It was very 
windy and rained some, but I slept on the ground ; have 
not undressed or pulled off my boots for three days and two 
nights. 

Tuesday, 21. — Rose at 3 o'clock, at the dawn of day a 
gun fired, we all rallied, prepared to set out before sunrise, 
a fair wind from the north, lake rough and boisterous ; called 
at Cumberland Head, catched a morsel of cheese and a bit 
of sea bread, but this with lake water rather increased my 
pain and disorder. We proceeded, but with a degree of anx- 
iety, the lake very rough, but we bore away and went at 
a prodigious rate, and ran to Esq. Gilliland's, forty miles, in 
six hours. I long to feel terra firma. Sundry were greatly 
surprised, but we arrived safe and put up at Gilliland's Creek 
at 3 o'clock ; were most kindly received and entertained by 
that hospitable man. Spent the afternoon with him — he 
came from New York, settled here, has fourteen hundred 
and fifty acres of land, and owns Cumberland Head, We 
had some excellent spruce beer, which greatly revived me, 
my disorder seemed to abate, it is now about thirty miles to 
the Point. We supped agreeably on tea and fish, and I lay 



24 

in a good bed, slept well. Ah, what mercy and kindness I 
experience every moment. 

Wednesday, 22. — A frost last night but pleasant to-day, 
rose early, took a dish of tea and came off at seven ; Esq. 
Gilliland accompanied us to the boat, with all the marks of 
kindness possible. He is truly a benefactor. Wind ahead, 
we rowed under the west shore, but heavily, and the stupid 
soldiers grumbled much about proceeding, though the Capt., 
Mr. Ripley, Mr. Dean and I readily took our turns at rowing, 
called at a point about two miles, swarms of flies and mus- 
quitoes ; held a council about proceeding as the lake grew 
very rough and the wind high ahead, but on the whole con- 
cluded to try for the next house, two miles. About half 
went on shore and the rest in the boat, we double-manned 
and strove hard and came to a bay where we harbored — two 
houses — John Grant's and his father-in-law's, who live brave- 
ly. We dined on some veal at Grant's very comfortably, then 
rested, slept, &c., waiting for the wind to fall. I got two 
shirts washed, all my linen being soiled. I feel weak, and 
find that a little labor, walking and rowing, seems to out-do 
me, but blessed be God, have better health than some days 
past. This is twenty-four miles from Crown Point, lake 
here about eight miles wide, three miles to Split Rock 
whence the lake is in general about one to two miles wide all 
the way to Ticonderoga. The wind continued strong all day. 
Supped on some milk, which is quite new ; agreed to go by 
day light in the morning, sung and prayed and went to rest. 
Thursday, 23. — Rose early, wind fallen, we went on 
board at sunrise, met a large number of boats, a sloop, &c. 
Gen. SiUiman's brigade; grew cloudy and wind rose fair, put 
away and came adrift to Bason Harbor, no great accommo- 
dations for refreshment — put oif to Crown Point where we 
arrived at 12 o'clock, took refreshment, dined on chocolate, 
at 2 set off, Capt. Parsons left us, came to Ticonderoga at 6 
o'clock when the instant we landed, Capt. Bronson and Capt. 



25 

Hopkins were setting off for Skenesborongh, who gave me 
an invitation to embark with them; we came ten miles up 
South Bay and encamped, made out some supper, had a bet- 
ter appetite. We lay down, the heavens our shelter, and 
slept ; Oh, I want nothing so much as a grateful mind. 

Friday, 24.— Rose early, i. e. at 3 o'clock, alarmed, and 
set off: pleasant, still morning, but very chilly and cold — > 
this bay is hemmed in with mountains and rocks, generally 
about half a mile wide or three quarters. Passed on, agrees 
able conversation, ate a cake that Capt. Hopkins gave me^ 
and at noon we arrived at Skenesborongh ; I got a soldier to 
carry my pack and walked a mile, bringing only my cloak 
and gun and was all in a tremor. I was not sensible of my 
weakness, must hire a horse, I cannot proceed ; I think I 
know in some degree now, what hardship is. We dined 
comfortably at 2 o'clock near the landing. Could get no 
horse, got my things carried and traveled three or four miles 
to Capt. Burrough's who agreed to go with Capt. Bronsou 
and me to-morrow to Rupert and find us horses. We tar- 
ried all night ; this evening felt poorly and very gloomy, but 
after a dish of tea felt more comfortable. Begin to hear 
news from below. Oh, the distracted state of this poor un- 
happy country ; it's a comfort that the Lord reigns. 

Saturday, 25. — Rose at daylight, took a dish of tea and 
set out. Very disagreeable, gay horse, worried me, terrible 
road, hideous country, rode fifteen miles to Pollet, called and 
dined at one Allen's who moved from Woodbury — found 
his wife to be Sarah Parmelee — she appeared to be a real 
Christian, She really revived my heart by pious conversa- 
tion. Here is a saint, in the wilderness, yet in the light; 
humble, meek and lowly, but an heir of all things. We pro- 
ceeded on to Billard's, could get no refreshment but some 
water with a piece of toasted bread which revived me< 
Came to Rupert, to Capt. Smith's, who lives cleverly, and 
4 



26 

was most kindly received ; ivtiied to bed lull ol' experience 
of Divine goodness. 

Lord's Odi/, '30. — Walked out, it rained a little : cimcluded 
not to attempt to preach unless a short discourse in the P. M, 
People gathered, I met with them. My bowels yearned to see 
so many come and some six or seven miles, as siieep without a 
shepherd — but dare uot preach, so feeble and weak ; however, 
made the eoncludinc: j'rayer and an ajtplication to what was 
ri^ad, and told the people, would try to preach in the P. M. 
O what a fine opportunity for faithtnl j)rcaciiers to do good in 
these Grants, (Royal Grants.) I feel as if I \vant to come 
and ride about from place to place and preach ; there appears 
a great desire among the people, at least many of them, to 
hear the Gosj^el. P. M., preached in the barn to a great 
number oi' people who were very attentive : my strength was 
evidently spent bel'ore I linishcd my sermon, but got through 
comt'ortably. Sat up late for religious conversation. 

Monday, 27. — Find it ditiicult to be supplied with a horse. 
Walked about and visited, find I gain strength, yet am so 
thin, that people who have seen me before, scarce know me. 
Soldiers push along, I doubt not the small-pox will be spread 
all over the country. Major Satl'ord arrivetl, and went on to 
Bennington. Urged that 1 preach a lecture there, but dare 
not engage. Went to Ca[)t. Smith's — officers and soldiers 
came in ; news of Johnson and the Mohawks going on a 
private ex[)edition. Lieut. Frisbie came, lodged with me — 
late when we retired, but so much noise among the sol- 
diers, got little sleep. 

Tuesdai/, 28. — Capt. Smith procured horses lor us, started 
and came to Dorset, then to Manchester and j^roceeded to 
Sunderland, dined at Capt. Brownson's, came to Arlington, 
bought a few articles at Hall's — then to Shattbury and pro- 
ceeded to Bennington, lodged at Mr. Dewey's. He is truly 
a charming man. 1 greatly like the regulations of his 
Church — he has a hundred fold in this life. 



Wednesday, 29. — Rode with Mr. Dewey. He urged me 
to preach a lecture appointed, but obhged to refuse for want 
of heahh. Called on Major SafTord, went to the lecture, Mr. 
Dewey preached well. Rode to Mr. Mills', he concluded 
to let nie have a horse to Lanesborough and a little boy to 
bring it back. News of the secret confederacy of Tories and 
the discovery of their plot. People this way are much in 
fear on accoutit of internal enemies. O, what will become 
of this unhappy country, we are distressed and perplexed, 
cast down but not destroyed. What a consoling thought, 
that the Lord, He is our King. Retired after serious conver- 
sation in the eve with Mr. Mills. 

Thursdap, 30. — Prepare to leave, hired a boy who went 
on foot but kept pace with me. Came to Williamstown, then 
to Lanesborough at night, cordially received by my dear 
friend and classmate, Mr. Collins. He has a pleasant family 
and lives agreeably in these boisterous times. Sweet even- 
ing's conversation — retired late after having experienced 
much of the goodness of God. 

Friday, 31. — Paid and dismissed the lad with the horse, 
walked about with Mr. Collins, concluded to tarry here until 
to-morrow, if not over the Sabbath. Conversed about the 
disorderly state of the country, 6cc. — in the evening, on some 
divinity subjects. 

Saturday, Jiuie \. — It rains hard this morning. Heard a 
rumor of Col. Beadle having had a battle, with the loss of a 
liundred men and driving the enemy, but it is I believe, un- 
certain. Read some but feel very feeble, fear I have broken 
my constitution in the campaign, but ought not to be too so- 
licitious about any thing. At the earnest request of Mr. Col- 
lins I have concluded to attempt to deliver a discourse to- 
morrow. Rode out, had agreeable conversation about the 
intelligence from Africa, and hopeful prospects of the spread 
of the Redeemer's kingdom there, am convinced it is duty 
to cast in our mite. 



28 

Lord's Day, '2. — Kaiiiy morning ; Mr. Collins preach- 
ed from " Tliis is the victory tliat overcometh the world, 
even our faith. " P. M., I preached with considerahle 
iVeedoni — " This man shall be the Peace.'' Excessively 
tiiinl, (ear 1 shall he nnablc to prtwch lor some time. The 
soldiers can call me any thing else now, but a pulpit drum. 
At six o'clock, jNIr. TiCwis from my iiouse came in, I was sur- 
prised but glad to hear from home — not a little struck with 
the tiiiings from Branlord, relative tomy dear mother's illness. 
We have every reason to believe she prefers her Redeemer's 
kingd(Mn. 

Monddij. ;>. — After packing, st't oif with ]\lr. Collins lor 
Rev. Mr. INhmson's, l.enox, then to Kev. Mr. West's, Stock- 
bridge, pleasing conversation. 

Tuesdai/, A. — Rode in company with ^Ir. West and Col- 
lins to Mr. Farrand's. attended the Association. Delivered 
to ^hs. Sutton a hundred dollars I had in charge Irom iier 
husband. 

Wednesday, o, — l\ode home and louiul my dear family 
M'ell, after having cxjierienced and seen the. most abmuiant 
displays of Divine goodness and mercy. O tor true gratitude. 

Tuesdai/, July 2. — Took leave again of dear friends at 
home to join the regiment. Will God be with me and keep 
WW \\\ this way that I go : came to Slieriield, Mr. Camp with 
me. anil stayed the night. 

}]'tdnt>!day, o. — Set oti' tor Albany, came to ^Tiller's 
twelve mile short. 

IVnirsday, 4. — Came into Albany, saw I\Ir. Trumbull, 
drew thirty dollars-^gave a receipt, (duplicate.) one to 
him and one to ]\Ir. Winslow. Bought sundry things and 
saw many tViends. 

Friday, 'y — l.et"t Albany and proceeded to Stillwater. 

Safurday, 0. — Proceeded to Saratoga, then to Fort Ed- 
ward, lodged at Mr. Selah's. 



29 

Lord's Day, 7. — Arrived sato at Lake Oeorgo at W\\ 
o'clock, found Col. Bnol. glad to soo inc. visited the small- 
pox hospital. jM'ayed — (.Ireadt'ul sutlering. At live i^'eloek. 
^Ir. Camp set otl' lor home. At six o'eloek. hail a religious 
exercise, preached iVom Kev. •• Fear (.uhI and give glory to 
him, lor the hour of his judgments is come." Attentive as- 
sembly — stayed with Col. iiuel, rose at tour o'clock and con- 
cluded to cross the lake with the express ; fmo day, Inu wind 
ahead. "We stopjied at the narrows, took il inner anil jno- 
ceeded to Sabbath-day-point — wind aheail. went on, but ar- 
rived at sunset. Lodged at Adams" with Capt. Martui. w lu> 
is my company to the Point. 

Tuesday, 0. — Cot our baggage over and walked to Ticou- 
deroga, where at eleven o'clock we went on boartl with Col, 
Warner, and with a very line gale run down to the Point in 
three iiours. Found our regiment who were exceedingly 
rejoiced to see me — all — oltlcers and soldiers. The camp 
in a most sickly state, ten or twelve in some instances have 
been buried in one day, but at present the sickness abates, 
through mercy. At evening, met, iiad a most solemn and 
aflectionate season o( prayer and exhortation ; slept with 
Doct. Riley in Capt. Watson's markee. 

Wednesday, 10. — Attended prayers and sung, saw all 
our people, many poorly, besides the great luimbers gone to 
Lake George. Alas, the camp is in a nu^st pitiful situation, 
a great many sick and comjilaining. The chaplains come to 
see me — went with ]\h-, Avery to the hosjiitals and never 
was such a picture of wretchedness — men not alive, and men 
breathing their last. This day unhappy dilfcrence between 
Doct. Sutton and Lieut. Converse. Miserable creatures we 
are, not to let alone contentions when marciiing in such a 
broad phalanx to the grave. Slept on the ground. 

Thursday, IL — Rainy all day; Lieut. Riley very poorly 
— uncomfortable in the tent from rain. P. M., visited Col. 
Patterson, Mr. Avery and a number of ofiicers. All look 
down, and gloomy. We want good generalship. 



30 

Friday^ 12. — Pleasant day; Stephen taken unwell. I keep 
well hitherto. Wrote home and to Rev. Mr. Kirkland.* 
Heavy shower ; tents are very miserable shelter in a hard 
rain. We attend prayers every night and morning and gen- 
erally sing. Visited the sick in Col. Reed's regiment near 
by us — also the worst cases reported in the small-pox room. 
Towards night attended on an audit to settle unhappy diller- 
ence between Doct. Sutton and Lieut. Converse. 

Saturday, 13. — Feel pretty well tlio' stomach-sick at 
turns because of the terrible nausea in the camp and hos- 
pitals. Visited the hospitals and other sick. P. M., con- 
cluded our audit, and with great unanimity. In the evening 
had intimate and serious conversation with Capt. P. and 
Lieut. S., two I hope real Christians. Slept in the tent on 
ground very well. 

Lord's Day, 14. — Many sick with camp distemper ; Lieut. 
Riley no better, Doct. Sutton very poorly. Preached A. M. 
in the Fort. Two chaplains present and numbers from 
other regiments. Appointed a second sermon at four o'clock. 
A vast concourse of people ; the General and great num- 
bers of the principal officers attended ; preached from Isaiah 
vi, 7th and Stli versos, more particularly the eighth. "Also 
I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, whom shall I send, 
and who will go for us? Then said I. here am I ; send me." 
Spoke with freedom, drank tea with the General afterwards — 

complimented by , but may I be more concerned to 

please God, and less to please men. I sleep on the ground 
comlbrtably, in Capt. Parmelee's Fort. News from New 
York, very good, by an express to the General. 

Moitdai/, 15. — Orders to get ready to go to Ticonderoga. 
Visited and received visits from the chaplains ; agreeable con- 
versation. 

Tuesdai/, 16. — Busy at'ter prayers in preparation : at ten 
o'clock embarked lor Ticonderoga, head wind, rainy but ar- 
rived at sunset. Lodged in the Fort with Capt. Tim. Collins. 



* Missionary among the Oneida Indian*. 



31 

Wednesday, 1.7. — Troubled with constant pains in my 
stomach, yet keep about comfortably. By advice conclude 
to go to Lake George, to mak'e a visit a few days to the sick, 
and the rest of our regiment which is nearly one lialf. Sick 
arrive to be sent on. At five o'clock P.M., went with liieut. 
Doty to the landing. Lodged on some boards on the wharf 
with Capt. Pioneer a settler, who showed me great kindness. 

Thursday^ 18. — Rained all day — kept in a tent — uncom- 
fortable at night, went with Capt. Parmelcc to Mr. Spavins, 
where we lodged well. "^J'his day visited (jien. l)e Woloke ; 
very sick, fears to die. 1 talked plainly about d(;alh and 
need of Christian faith. 

Friday, 19. — Waited all day for boats — walked about 
with Capt. Parmelee. Rainy and wet weather. 

Saturday, 20. — Breakfasted, and at nine o'clock set out 
for Lake George, rowed to Sabbath-day-point ; we took a 
mouthful, then with a fair hard wind came at a great rate up 
to Lake George by six o'clock. Saw Mr. Curtiss and never a 
a man so altered. 1 wish he may get home — fear he will 
not — yet well, if he does not. The Lord directs. Visited 
one hospital and prayed with the regiment at sunset. Capt. 
Holt in a sad low state. Slept with Col. Buel ; comfortable. 

Lord^s Day, 21. — Rose early and visited the west hos- 
pital, so far as I could stand it, but not the rest until night. 
Never was such a portrait of human misery, as in these hos- 
pitals. Prayed several times. Concluded to preach over the 
other side A. M., on " Be ye iherefore sober and watch unto 
prayer." In the P.M. at four o'clock preached this side to 
a great many people. At evening preached again. Visited 
the hospitals, prayed with the sick, got greatly fatigued, how- 
ever rested pretty well. 

Monday, 22. — Applied myself to my duties — indeed it is 
too much, but I am carried along — visited part and left the 
rest for night. Wrote home to my father, also to brothers 
Keep and Starr. Visited the long hospital this side. P. M. 



32 

Mr. Spring- oaino aiul helinnl me visit [\\c otluMs at ufght. 
CalUnl on (^ol. Hooil ,^\vho is niado Hiiiiadior) and on liis rc- 
qnest agrood to stM'vo his roginiont with onrs as cliaplatn. 
Near night tall t'olt unwoU hnt slofit some. 

7'<«>'(/<iy. '23. — StMit tor early, to visit Capt. ,>lanirs son— 
lio is near his ond. Afterwards advised with the surgeon and 
agreed to take a vomit direetly. tar/ar emetic, and never was 
poor mortal more terribh' liandled. yet not iiuite eome to 
sjvisms: evidently it \vas very neeessary — was eoml'ortably 
attended ; otiieers very kind to me. I'naMe to go out till 
sunset. News iH" l-'reneh tleet i^t" til'ty sail on thi' eoast. in 
cousei|ueiiee ot" l\h". Dean pledging the publie taith ot' the 
Continent, that Independenee be declared. »S;e.. \e. 

ire(///f.«/(r//. 21. — Sent tor early to visit Col. Reed, tear 
he won't live, bad symptoms. Prayed toin- times this niorn- 
iuij with the siek — tear death will do its work. Concluded 
not to go over, but by earnest desire tarry a few days, but 
'>h-. Spriui: must visit the general hospual. Peatlis have 
been about live a day. tor some days jwst. A great mortality 
but not so frequent as has been. Mr. Curtiss came to my 
room, endeavored to eoinfort him, he apjH\ired rather better, 
but excessive low in spirits. Visited Col. Reed again at 
evening and prayed with him. the regiment, \e. At nine 
o'clock at night sent t'or with Mr. Spring to visit the rrnssian 
Uetieral. Oe Woloke. who was pronoiuiced by the chief doc- 
tor to be a dying man. A very singular trial I had. He 
most earnestly requested that I administer the sacrament to 
him. that he had made his jXMce with Cod and nothing re- 
mained but to do his last command. I lelt that he was de- 
hided. I endeavored to show him that God did not require 
it — that if he truly believed on the Lord Jesus Christ he 
would be accepted. He was so weak he could not converse 
much. I prayed with him and Mr. Spring said the l,oi\l's 
pniyer at his desire, and we lel't him. Lieut. Uiley grows 
worse, fear about liim. 



33 

Thursday, 25. — I waul a cooslitiifiofi of brass to tarry 
hero and do duly as seems nocossary. Very hoi, faint wnaiher. 
Visited (Jol. lieod, then som(3 of the other sick, hut iiiierly 
unable to go through the hospital. Reproved several sharply 
for swearing. Conversed agreeably with Mr. Spring. 

Friday, 26. — Conversed with Doctor l*otl8 who inf(»rrned 
me I must instantly take ipecac; the bile was collecting so 
fjAst, it would llu'ow rne into the inflairiinalory camp disorder. 
I took a solution of manna, cream of tartar, senna and an- 
ise seed ; had a sick day. 

Saturday, 27. — Concluded by advice of Doctor liynn, 
Col. Bnel and Mr. Spring, to try to get down a little way 
into the cormlry. Went in a waggon with Dr. Heebc and 
Dr. Waterman — arrived at Fort Edward toward night. 

Lord's Day, 28.- -Sick, and had high fever. Was brought 
in a waggon to Saratoga, to Mr. Petits'. 

Monday, 29. — Was brought in a carriage to Stillwater, 
where Doct. Merwin atleufled \n<:, who says my disorder is 
of the dissolvent ))Utrid kind. IJe talked encouragingly but 
says no prospect of my being able to return to the cairip and 
to my duties under three or four weeks, and as I could ride 
a little recommended me to try to get home. I am pecu- 
liarly unfitted to do the duties of a chaplain, on account of 
my bilious constitution. I envy brother Avery his health. 
He will go ihrougFi the hrispital when pestifeTons as disease 
and death can make it with a face as smoolFi as a baby's and 
afterward an appetite as healthy as a woodchopper. J can- 
not — after inhaling such diseased breath, am sick and faint, 
besides their sorrows take hold of me. I would not shrink 
from the work. Our war is a righteous war; our men are 
called to defend the country ; whole cf»ngregations turn out, 
and the ministfirs of the gospel should go and encourage 
them when doing duty, attend and pray for and with them 
when sick, and bury them when they die. I hope to return 
to my work. 

5 



34 

Tttpsdatj, 30 — Camo a little ways. I am better to-day. 

Wt<inrs(hit/. 31. — Rode in a chair to Albany, then to 
Greenbnsh. 

Tfutrsffai/, Aii^iisf 1. — To IMeKinn try's. Fn'dni/, 2. — 
To Sheffield. Safiirdaij, 3. — Home, and havq I tiu^t a 
gratefnl sense of the Divine goodness. 

Mo)idai/, Aiii^iist 19. — Took leave o( iViends at home to 
join the regimeiit ; came in company with Capt. ^^ atson, 
both o( ns feeble soldiers. 

Tuesdoijj 20. — Came to Kinderhoolc. Ensign Cowles 
passed us on anotlier road. We heard of the death of Mr. 
Curtiss. News by express that the ships got out of the river. 

Wcdiiesdaij, 21 — Came on, met Major Curtiss who is very 
ill. tear he will not recover. It rained, arrived in .\lbany, 
saw CajU. Woodbridge, Lieut. Stevens and others. 

Thiirsdai/. 22. — Proceeded to Saratoga. Heard oi' Doct. 
Sutton's illness, rode back in the evening a mile to see him. 
He is very low, fear how it will terniiuate. Prayed at his 
request and returned to my lodgings. 

Fridat/, 23. — Rose early and rode back to visit the Doct. ; 
prayed ami counselled and took leave. Breaktasted with 
Capt. Watson ami came on to Fort Edward : called at Selah's, 
where was poor Heman Watson in a distressed condition, 
hardly think he will ever be able to get any I'arther. Left 
Capt. Watson. Rode with Doct. Potts to Lake George. He 
told me it was at the risk of my lite to go into the hospitals. 
But if the physician goes, why not a minister of the great 
Physician. Lodged in Col. Biicrs quarters. Mr. Breck here 
and ]Mr. Avery icho is sick-. 

Sattirdai/. 24. — ]Mr. Breck went to Ticouderoga. Mr. 
Avery has the t'ever and ague. Went to look tor my horse, 
but he was taken without leave. At noon Capt. Watson 
arrived and Stephen with my chest. Lodged well in a 
camp bed. 



35 

Lorrrs Daij, 25. — Rose early ; was applied to by sundry 
to preach, but spoke discouragingly about it. Tried to get 
a boat to pass the Lake. At night, read, sang, and prayed 
with the York forces, all drawn up near the fort. Mr. Avery 
had a terribly hard ague, from nine in the morning till twelve 
at night — delirious. At midnight a hard storm came on. 

Monday, 2^. — Very stormy and rainy; concluded not to 
go over the Lake. Visited a poor, dying man in the bake- 
house. Lieutenant Kemble is with us, to go over when the 
weather permits. 

Tuesday, 27 — .It continued stormy, could make but few 
calls. Mr. Avery who we thought was almost proof against 
disease, had another fit to-day. Mr. Burrall and Mr. Beebe 
came. 

Wednesday, 28. — Visited Gen. Reed, prayed with him — 
he is very low. At noon it cleared away with strong wind 
ahead, could not go, one boat only set off. 

Thursday, 29. — Made early preparation for going to Ti- 
conderoga; am obliged to go in a heavily loaded boat; a 
great company went with Mr. BiuTall ; set off at four o'clock, 
wind ahead, rowed hard ten miles, put in at Darkwest. it 
was contrary to orders because the savages are prowling about 
there, but could not reach Twelve-mile island. Capt. Wright 
pitched his tent in a thick wood on very wet ground, but we 
agreed to lodge and spread our blankets. Got a little sleep. 
It was very uncomfortable in the tents for it rained a great 
part of the night. Kindled a fire and sat by it a great part 
of the night. This is soldier like — the romance is some- 
thing, but a poor balance for the fatigue and self-denial — but 
I do not mind it, if I can keep sound in body and clear in 
voice. 

Friday, 30. — Morning calm but chilly, off early, came to 
an island and breakfasted on fish and pork ; proceeded to 
Sabbath-day-point, came on, was in hopes to reach Ticon- 
deroga but fell short seven miles, some lodged on land, some 
in the boat. Slept comfortable. 



ol3 

Saftirday, 31. — Came to landing at seven o'clock ; break- 
fasted oa bread and cheese with Lake water with Doct. Bee- 
be and Mr. Burrall. We got over our baggage and walked 
to Ticonderoga. Moved over to onr brigade at Mount Inde- 
pendence, found onr poor regiment like the rest of the brig- 
ade in a down, sickly state. Colonel poorly. Major not well : 
took lodgings with the Major, Adjutant and Quarter-master. 
Was cordially received. At evening visited B. Seward, con- 
vei-sed and prayed with him. poor man I tear he will die. 
Slept with the Major m a new bunk. 

Lord's Day, Septetnher 1. — Visited the sick round about in 
tents, was introduced to Mr. Davids, a chaplain. Towards 
night preached to the brigade, a serious and attentive audience. 

Monday, 2. — Visited the rounds ; whenever I could, would 
try to imjxirt consolation and hope — but am otien tried 
•^-can only dii-ect them to the Redeemer of men ; they gen- 
erally listen to prayer. P. M., went over to Ticonderoga 
with ]Mr. Breck and Davids. Viewed the encampments of 
the Penn^ylvanians : a new recruit iVom Boston: saw and 
got acquainted with Mr. Emerson and Hitchcock. Politely 
received by Col. DeHaas. Returned at night. Col. Burrall 
quite ix>orly. 

Tuesday, 3. — Went in the morning with Mr. Breck to see 
the General about wages. P. M. — Walked through the 
whole encampment. The woods swarm with men. Many 
militia-men arrived. Lieut. Converse and Mr. Beach taken 
sick. News of the death of Mr. Barnum of Pittstield. There 
is not one field officer in our brigade except Major Sedg- 
wick who is not sick. 

Wednesday, 4. — Pleasant wholesome weather. Cols. Por- 
ter and Gratton quite low. News from New York of impor- 
tance, also from Mohawk river. At night prayed and sang 
with the briitade. This exercise is otten held on the parade 
iiround, when the music nivarch up and the drummers lay 
itlieir drmns in a very neat style in two rows, one above the 



37 

other ; it always takes five, and ofl(;ii the rows are very long ; 
occasionally theyrnake a plalforni for me to stand n|)on 
and raise their drums a number of tier. 

Thursday, 5. — Tliis day I am thirty-six y(!ars ol(J, thus 
kindly preserved, but, alas, how useless. Pleasant, healthy 
weather; visited the sick, &c. Nothins^ especial to-day. 

Friday, 6. — l^iUJoy througli great mercy good health in 
the midst of sickness and death all aromid me. (Jol. 
Swift's regiment came up; saw Lieut. Watson. News of a 
terrible fight of our fleet down the lake. The camp all 
awake. Col. Burrall very sick with the intermittent fever. 
Col. (:»ratton and Col. Porter the same. Said a few words at 
prayers from the Prophet Joel. " A day of trouble and 
distress, a day of wasteness and desolation, a day of dark- 
ness and of gloominess, a day of clouds atnl thick tlarkness, 
a day of trumpet and alarui." — But told thcj people we could 
rejoice in the Lord, who could turn our mourning into joy. 
In the evening disputed with Mr. Davids about the seventh 
day, his mind not clear. 

Saturday, 7. — Rains. Assisted the dtiartcr-master ser- 
geant (the Adjutant absent, sick) in making the weekly re- 
turns. Stephen is taken sick, gave him medicine. Col. Bur- 
rall is some better. (;!eneral orders this morning for every 
officer and soldier throughout the army that is well to turn 
out on fatigue and prepare for the enemy. 

Lord's Day, 8. — Still rainy and very imwholesomc weath- 
er. Our regiment in a most miserable condition ; I could 
wish they were all dismissed. Visited this day tent by tent 
and could not pass one single tent among the soldiers where- 
in there were not one or more sick. All ordered out on fa- 
tigue this P. M., so could have no sermon. At night attend- 
ed the funeral of B. Seward. There is something more than 
ordinarily solemn and touching in our fiujerals, especially an 
officer's; swords and arms inverted, others with their arms 
folded across their breast stepping slowly to the beat of the 



38 

imillU\l iliirn I otuKwvor to say soinothinp; iliat will load 
to lUtHlKaiioii, hut only a word. At ten o'clock this evening 
tiio Ailjutant ruMieral (Col. Tnunbnll) came through the 
whole cani]> o\\ private business. There is something ot' 
ini[^(Miance ctnne to head quarters. 

Moiidai/, 9. — Spent consitlerable part ot' the day witii 
Col. Hurrall who is really very ill. A'isited and j^rayed with 
the sick in their tents. Mr. Hreck very sick. Col. Cratton, 
a little better; went otl* to Fort George; this day I sent sev- 
enty-two dollars to my wife by lOlijah Phelps. No news 
from the tleet, which gives great anxiety. 

Taesdni/, 10, — Cloudy chilly weather. Capt. Hurrall has 
come — concludes to take the old Col. home if he can. We 
all advise it. as his life is in danger here. Walked with l\Ir. 
'reinient through the whole camp. Mr. Beach went otf to- 
day lor the country. The groans of the distressed in the 
camp are real atVecting. Capt. Troop very poorly, so is Capt. 
Austin — only Capt. Watson left. Not tifty men really lit 
t'or iluty. The ^Major is disheartened in trying to turn out 
men according to the requisition maile. News at night that 
the tieet is yet safe. Five men killeil going on shore. A 
great ninnbcr oC otliccrs in the evening — too gay company 
for me but I must put np with it as well as I can ; I'eel dis- 
pirited, but it is not strange. 

HVt'dncsufai/, 11. — The JMaj. and lescorted the Col. down 
to the water side : he is truly weak ami it is tloubtl'ul wheth- 
er he gets home, at least in a long time. P. M. — Iiulisposed ; 
at evening attended prayers with the brigade. Spent some 
time with l*ease and Uamliu, both sick. We are t'ull o( tears 
about the sonthwanl army. 

T/iursdaij, VZ. — Pleasant air, walked out, visited and 
prayed with the sick; called on Mr. Davids who has a turn 
of the intermittent. Si>ent some time with Mr. Brock who 
lives retired. I wish 1 couKl. The company here is very 
irksome many times. P. M. — ^\'alked down to the lines; 



sundry caiiiioii fired, to c\v:\v oiii mid jirovc with doiihN; far- 
tridg(!.s. At eve rea(J, prayed and siiiri^ witli a lar;^'er iiiunher 
of the bri|^ade than corriinon, ehidly (ilraltoii's aii<l oirr regi- 
ment. 

Friday, K>. — Cloudy and w(!t. My heart is grieved as I 
visit the poor soldiers — such distress and rnis(;rahle accommo- 
dations. One very sick youth from Massaelnisetts asked me 
to save him if possible ; said he was not fit to die, says, " I can- 
not die, do, sir, pray for me, will yon not send for my mother, 
if she were here to muse me I could get well ; () my motlier, 
how I wish I conl(J see her, she was opposed to my enlisting, 
1 am now vt:ry sorry, do let her know I am sorry." I en- 
deavored to point him to the only source of j)eace, prayed 
and left him ; he caimot live long. 1 am determined to move 
my quarters unless they are different here. Talked and re- 
proved Maj. |{ w, but to no purf)ose I fear. Many by 

their wickedness do more hurt a thousand fold than they 
themselves do good in the cause. lOntertained yesterday 
and to-day what time I could get in reading Walker's 
knowledge of ourselves, Ace. Conversed freely with the 
Major about om* company. We have concluded to put up 
with it a little longer on his urgency. At night Stephen 
came from Shoram — no better — concerned about him, fits 
every night, &c. I encouraged him to go to Lake George 
and home if he can possibly get leave. 

Saiurday, 14. — Wind in the; north ; more wholesome 
weather for the poor sick. After all our attempts to get the 
sick away, yet could not obtain consent; what will they do, 
my bowels yearn for them. Several in our regiment must 
die I think. In Bond's regiment, by returns to-day, 197 sick 
besides those absent, and forty ordy that are well. P. M. — 
Consulted seriously with the Major and Doctor about the 
sick, on the whole concluded to certify to the General six- 
teen of the worst cases that could be moved, to go to l-'ort 
George and send an officer and men to convey them. Ac- 



40 

cordingly I went with the Doctor iVom tent to tent through 
the wliole regiment, examined all, and the Major and Doctor 
certified, and Captain Austin ohtained of the General permis- 
sion. Some serious and profitable conversation this evening 
in Lieut. Mills" tent. 

Lord's Day, 15. — Rained last night — warm to-day. This 
morning my boy Stephen took a vomit, he is very weak but 
hope to get him to Fort George. Visited Woodruff of the 
Trahi, fear he will not live. Stirred up the Doctor and 
talked with Maj. Bigelow about getting him and others 
away. Retired in Doct. Swift's tent and read. At one 
o'clock our poor sick went off. Sixteen o( them for Fort 
George — miserable company : I fear sundry of them will 
never reach home. Visited Mr. Breck — he is comfortable — 
he agrees to preach at four o'clock, attended the exercise — 
his text, " But whom say ye that I am.'' Attentive audience. 
Ofiicers met in the evening^ to agree about filling up va- 
cancies. 

Monday, 10. — Rose early, walked to the lines, cool morn- 
ing. Post came, brought me a letter from liome and another 
from brother L. LeBaron. He is a warm patriot and would 
like to continue his chaplaincy. Went with Mr. Breck to 
visit Rev. Mr. Emerson who is very low. At sunset prayed, 
read, cVc, with the brigade. 

Tuesday, 17. — Wet, misty weather ; nothing remarkable. 
Read at prayers resolutions of Congress about wounded sol- 
diers, &c. Officers met this evening to fill up the regiment, 
(fcc, &c. Sat up very late. 

Wednesday, 18. — Saw four deserters of Col. Porter's reg- 
iment flogged. Went with Stephen to the General and ob- 
tained a furlough tor him for twelve days. Was treated very 
politely by the General who is worried out witli applications. 
Heard that Col. Burrall was not likely to get home. It ap- 
pears that Col. Gratton must die — a most amiable man. P. M. 
Mr. Breck and I visited Col. Maxwell— a man of handsome 
manners as are most of the officers. 



41 

Thursday, 19. — Mild and pleasant. Visited the rounds. 
Received a letter fronri brother Starr. Brother Gould* sick 
and returned from New York. Wrote to Mr. Brinsmade. 
People get out more generally to prayers. 

Friday, 20. — Foggy, chilly morning ; we want fire. Mr. 
Davids went off to day sick for Stillwater. P. M. — Pleasant. 
Wrote to my father. Greater number at prayers than ever, 
and a very perceptible gain in health. Serjeant Phel[)s very 
ill with cholic. Amos Phelps down with fever and ague. 

Saturday, 21. — Misty and wet until ten o'clock, then 
clear as is often the case here. Visited the sick, none I hope 
dangerous in our regiment — worse in Col. Gratton's. P. M. 
Walked round with the Major. He listened to some serious 
conversation. General orders appear to-day for to-morrow, 
that all labor, &c. shall cease. Divine service to be attended 
at eleven o'clock in every brigade. I am sorry the appoint- 
ment is on the Sabbath, but it is a southern custom. 

Lord's Day, 22. — Cloudy in the morning as usual but 
cleared away. Attended divine service on the parade ground 
— a convenient place built up for me, the whole brigade un- 
der arms attended, and great number of other officers and 
spectators. I preached from Daniel v, 23, with great free- 
dom and plainness. A very attentive audience ; was hoarse 
and some exhausted after I got through. The officers and 
soldiers observed the Sabbath in such a manner that it seem- 
ed more like a Sabbath-day than any I have seen in the army. 
Met at evening, at which I proposed to amend and reform 
the singing which had a good effect. Prayed, sang and dis- 
missed. 

Monday, 23. — Early this morning heard of my worldly 
loss of seventy-two dollars sent by Elijah Phelps for my 
wife — it is a frown, but trifling to what it might be. Walked 

* William Gould, M.D., of Manchester, whose wife was a sister of the writer. 
He was at this time a Surgeon in the army. 

6 



42 

round the camp, &c. P. M. — Ensign Sedgwick and Esq. 
Porter of Cornwall came. Lieut. Converse returned. We 
are in better condition. 

Tuesday, 24. — Am threatened with the camp distemper, 
which is a dreadful disease here. P. M. — Better. Walked 
about and attended as usual. 

Wednesday, 25. — News of importance from New York. 
At evening received a letter from my wife, saying herself and 
children unwell. Wrote to brother at Plymouth by one of 
his congregation. 

Thursday, 26. — Got acquainted with Kinsman Baldwin 
who married Sally Foot, an Ensign in Col. Swift's regiment. 
We are busy in building our chimney. Mr. Hitchcock in- 
vites me to preach on the other side on the Sabbath to Gen. 
Briket's brigade. Mr. Breck and I walked about, visited, &c. 
This day the general-doctor examined our sick — fourteen 
were discharged. Mr. Hotchkiss came from Norfolk. Noth- 
ing remarkable. 

Friday, 27. — Walked a mile with Capt. Troop ; procured 
a few turnips, have a bad cold, but able to-keep about and 
attend to my duties. News not so good from New York as 
heard. The city evacuated, &c. Every preparation making 
here for an attack. 

Saturday, 28. — Took a moderate sweat last night, and 
am better of my hoarseness. Have a most excessive itching 
humor — it is one of the camp troubles. Too much company 
to-day. It is very difficult to conduct as one ought. Noth- 
ing remarkable. 

Lord's Day, 29. — Was roused la«t night by a violent 
shower — the roof leaked and it poured in upon our bed. 
Some company at home very disagreeable for the sabbath. 
No exercises nor evening prayers. 

Monday, 30. — Pleasant weather but very windy. Had 
much company in and out. Visited the sick, &c. Wrote 
to Esq. Palmer, concerning my lost money. More particular 



43 

accounts from New York — not so bad as heard, but the city 
certainly evacuated. Helped the Capt. make the abstracts. 
Prayed at night with the brigade. Sometimes Tibbals, who 
strikes the drum admirably, gives it a touch at the right time 
when we are singing — it is beautiful harmony. A soft fife 
is also an addition. 

Tuesday, October 1. — Thus one month rolls on after an- 
other. It was expected the enemy would most certainly 
come by this time, and now they are looked for in one fort- 
night more, after which there will be no probability of their 
coming. Walked the rounds, &c. 

Wednesday, 2. — Have something of the camp distemper 
— but not the distressing pains many have. This day the 
two other row gallies set off. Gen. Waterbury gone. 

Thursday, 3. — Assisted the Major in paying off the Cap- 
tains. Kept my bed. 

Friday, 4. — Spikenard I believe is of special service in 
this disorder. Eat nothing but dry bread or biscuit. 

Saturday, 5. — Damp, cloudy weather. Poorly, but went 
out and prayed with a sick man. Had some profitable con- 
versation with others, but in general the talk is very chaffy 
and light with the most of them. 

Lord^s Day, 6. — Cloudy. Feel much better to-day. Con- 
cluded as it is so damp and likely to rain to meet in the Lab- 
oratory. Mr. Breck preached A. M. Mr. Tennent P. M. I 
concluded with prayer. Not so uncomfortable a Sabbath as 
some, but not as in the down country. 

Monday, 7. — Rainy weather. Court martial at our house. 
Visited about some, &c. General orders to picket the Fort 
directly, three hundred ordered on fatigue till finished. 

Tuesday, 8. — Wet, lowery weather. The labor brisk at 
the pickets, &c. 

Wednesday, 9. — A number of sick soldiers went over the 
Lake. Walked out to see Mr. Tennent— then walked the 
rounds. 



44 

Thursday^ 10. — Walked, visited, ice, but not profitably. 
Samuel IMills very poorly. Nothing remarkable. 

Friday, 11. — Pleasant weather. Our parade being cut to 
pieces, &c. Mr. Breck and I agreed to attend prayers apart 
— I, to attend our regiment and Gratton's — hCj the other 
two ; time, sunrise, and the evening gun. 

Saturday, 12. — Cold weather. Lieut. Gibbs of Winches- 
ter came. No news. 

Lord's Day, 13. — Agreed to preach, tho' feeble. Attend- 
ed at eleven o'clock, but the attention of the people taken 
up by a smart cannonading from the fleets which began in 
the morning. At noon express arrived with accounts of the 
battle on Friday down the Lake. All the camp alarmed. 
Towards night the whole army drawn up to the Lines, *ltc., 
to take the alarm posts. Five vessels that were left of the 
fleet came in in a shattered condition. The rest all des- 
troyed. This evening Col. Buel came. 

Monday, 14. — No sleep last night — alarms— the wKole 
camp in arms at four o'clock this morning, but no approach 
of the enemy. Took a walk for meditation. 

Tuesday, 15. — Gen. Arnold got in, and his troops that es- 
caped in the woods. Gen. Waterbury with all the prisoners 
were sent down from Crown Point and are here ordered home. 
I v.Mlked over to head-quarters, visited the wounded and a 
horrible spectacle they were. Desired by the General to go 
to Fort George with the sick and wounded of the Fleet. I 
agreed to go, but it was with reluctance. Got my chest over 
to the mills — lodged with Lieut. Murray. Alarms. The 
scout discovered a number of the enemy advancing towards 
this post. We were up at three o'clock. Indians and Cana- 
dians lurking about. 

Wednesday, 16. — Walked over early to get my chest along, 
dined at a blockhouse with Capt. Keith and Lieut. Tappan 
of Bridgwater and Middleborough. At three o'clock set out 
for Fort George, rowed on — calm, very dark, came by east- 



45 

em shore — very still by Sabbath-day-point because of the 
enemy ; passed a very uncomfortable night, no sleep — noisy 
swearing sailors. At two o'clock the wind rose, blew hard 
from the North-west, and while I was at the bow discovering 
the islands and Capt. Goforth in the stern, the rudder band 
broke. We lay at the mercy of the waves, but floated along 
near an island — came near dashing to pieces several times on 
the rocks — tried to land in vain, but at last by a gracious 
Providence got in the lee side and all lay in the boat until 
day. It rained hard — my heart grieved for the sick soldiers 
on board. In the morning we got into Lake George — very 
wet and benumbed with the cold. O could I once have 
thought that I could endure and undergo and safely go 
through such fatigue. Great has been the signal mercies of 
God. 

Thursday^ 17. — Breakfasted at Jones', afterwards shifted 
all my clothes, lay down and took a nap in my blanket. At 
two o'clock P. M., visited all the hospitals — saw the wounded 
soldiers dressed by the surgeon. Prayed in four or five 
wards ; came to Selah's to sleep. 

Friday^ 18. — Flying rumors from the army, nothing cer- 
tain. 

Saturday, 19. — Got some clothes washed, feel tolerably 
well. P. M., rode down to Fort Edward, found a Mrs. Camp- 
bell of New York, she appeared to be a good Christian. 
She was rejoiced to tears to hear Christian conversation ; re- 
turned to camp, slept well. 

Lord's Day, 20. — Felt dizzy and weak, and rode to the 
hospital, but not without some fear of the skulking savages. 
Visited the general hospital in almost every ward ; at two 
o'clock, preached and exhorted the sick and prayed with 
them. No news from the army to-day. Militia coming up 
this way ; wrote to Maj. Sedgwick and Rev. Mr. Farrand. 

Monday, 21. — Pleasant warm weather. Feel the eifects 
of a camp life. 



46 

Tuesday, 22. — Rode to the lake, visited every ward through 
the whole hospital ; two or three just breathing their last, 
prayed with them and tried to impress the living. The fre- 
quency of death often hardens. No news from camp. 

Wednesday, 23. — Rode to Stillwater with Col. Syms, 
agreeable man ; have not the least encouragement to do any 
thing more, worn down and low spirited, met militia going up. 

Thursday, 24. — Distress about here — in fear of the tories. 
Rode with Mr. Hannah to Doct. Parker's — returned and took 
tea in the evening with Mr. Spring. 

Friday, 25. — Rode with Mr. Spring and called on General 
Tenbroeck at Fort Edward with a message from Gen. 
Schuyler, returned, lodged with Mr. Spring. News of the 
death of one and captivity of two men at Ticonderoga 
landing, 

Saturday, 26. — Rode down to the lake, found Doct. Stod- 
dard with the sick just arrived. Helped the sick about dis- 
charge, &c. Visited the hospital, two have died with their 
wounds. Their suffering had been extreme — became easy 
before they died — had their reason. The rest I hope may 
live. Many more distressed creatures came over near night. 
They have a good surgeon — ^but " Physicians of no value" 
to these mangled men. 

Loi'd^s Day, 27. — Pleasant weather, militia proceed on in 
great numbers to the lake. Came in a boat to Port Miller, 
then in a waggon to McNeal's. Kinderhook regiment came 
up very noisy. 

Monday, 28. — Came to Gen. Schuyler's, waited on the 
General, told him I was broken down — had in a measure lost 
my voice, &c. He was very loth to give me a discharge 
but very ready to give me a furlough. Came to Bryant. 
An express passed us this evening with good news from the 
south. 

Tuesday, 29. — Came to Albany, did business and pro- 
ceeded towards home. 



47 

Wednesday, 30. — Rode on horseback, put up. 

Thursday, 31.— Arrived at night at my own home after 
near three months absence — in fatigue, perils and dangers — 
having experienced the most distinguishing marks of Divine 
mercy and favor. Now, O for a heart full of gratitude and 
praise and resolution to live thankful, humble and faithful, 
being laid under the greatest obligations thereto. 



An Inventory of my Clothes. 



thick cloth. 



sagathee. 



A Hat, 

" Cloak, 

" Great Coat, 
A Coat, 

" Jacket and 

Breeches. 
A Coat and 

Jacket. 
Breeches — knit, 
A striped Jacket, 
A blue Waistcoat, 
Two pair black stockings, 

'^ " blue yarns, 
One pair Indian stockings. 
Two pair of shoes. 
One pair of boots. 
Seven shirts. 
Three bands. 
Three long neck cloths. 
Three stocks, 
One silk handkerchief, 
One white " 

One check " 

Gloves, mitts. 



Buckles, &c. 

One bed of wool, 
" Check woolen blanket, 
" White, " ■ " 
" Pair linen sheets, 
" Woolen sheet, 
" Pillow, 

Two pillow coats, 
" Towels, 

One tea-pot, 
" Pewter plate, 
" " Porringer, 
" Spoon, 
" Knife, 

Books, 

Sermons, 

Paper, 

Ink and quills, 

Pen-knife, 

Wafers, 

Drugs, 

Herbs, 

Soap, 

Loaf and brown sugar, 

Two case bottles, &.c. &.c. 



48 
The Lerigth of the Lakes, 4*c. 

Miles. 

From Fort George to Ticonderoga landing, . . 36 

" Ticonderoga to Crown Point, . ... 15 

" Thence to St. Johns, 20 

" Thence to Chamblee, ..... 15 

" Thence to the mouth Sorrell, . . . .15 

" Thence to the Three Rivers, ... 50 

" Thence to Deshamble, . . . . .50 

" Thence to (Quebec, ..... 35 



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